We all know that green foods are good for us, but did you know they can help prevent some cancers and reduce the risk of macular degeneration? Dietitian Juliette Kellow Bsc RD takes a look at why we are always told to eat our greens.

Good For...

Reducing the risk of certain cancers and heart disease and healthy vision.

Why Should I Eat Them?

Many green foods such as spinach, kale, peas, Brussels and broccoli are good sources of two carotenoids called lutein and zeaxanthin. Much research has been carried out looking at the effect these nutrients can have on protecting the eyes from a condition called age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness in the West. Lutein and zeaxanthin are present in high concentrations in the macula – an area in the retina in the eye. Here, they help to filter out harmful light that has the potential to damage the eye.

There is also some evidence to suggest that lutein and zeaxanthin help to prevent or slow down the progression of cataracts. In fact, four large studies have found that adults with the highest intakes of foods rich in these antioxidants, particularly spinach, kale and broccoli, are up to 50 percent less likely to develop cataracts or need them removed.

Cruciferous green veggies such as broccoli, kale, sprouts and watercress contain phytochemicals called indoles that may protect against breast cancer and sulphoraphane, which may lower the risk of colon cancer. In fact, research has shown that sulphoraphane actually destroys cancer-causing substances that have been ingested and then increases levels of antioxidant enzymes, which help prevent cancer.

Other research from the John Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore has shown that sulphoraphane may also help to prevent stomach ulcers, thanks to its ability to kill H. pylori, the bacteria responsible for causing this unpleasant condition.

Finally, there’s even evidence that green veg are winners for keeping our heart healthy. A study of more than 100,000 health professionals found that for each daily serving of spinach or other greens eaten, an individual’s risk of heart disease dropped by a massive 11 percent.

How To Eat More Green Foods...

Add rocket, baby spinach and watercress to salads

Snack on mange tout or sugar snap peas

Serve meals with a green veg such as sprouts, cabbage or spring greens